News, Events & Listings

Are you thinking about buying a home in 2018? NOW is the time to start preparing! The market is tricky for home buyers these days, but it's not impossible, if you are prepared.

Joining me at this class is one of my favorite lenders, Kate Beck of HomeStreet Bank. Together we'll provide an overview of the steps it takes to get your financing in order, what the steps are to buying a home and how to best present yourself when you're ready to make an offer. Bring your questions, broad topic or specific to you...we'll get you ready to find your perfect home in 2018!

As always, my Home Buyer Class is FREE! RSVP: SaviyaRobinson@coldwellbanker.com or (206) 334-8348

I have been a full time Realtor since 2007 and have represented both buyers and sellers in transactions in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. I specialize in first time home buyers, but have worked with investors, short sales, and a large variety of unique real estate purchases. I am a Certified International Property specialist (CIPS), with a special skill set to assist international moves utilizing my experience living abroad and extensive travels.

Key indicators for Western Washington housing still rising, but brokers detect slowdown and uncertainty.

Early seasonal snow and questions swirling around the tax plan unveiled last week by House Republicans could make the usual seasonal slowdown more pronounced, say industry leaders from Northwest Multiple Listing Service. For October, however, key indicators trended upwards.

Pending sales rose nearly 8 percent from a year ago, closed sales were up 5.2 percent, and prices jumped about 8.2 percent, with 14 counties reporting double-digit gains. Even the number of new listings improved on the year-ago total.

Northwest MLS figures for the 23 counties it serves show members added 8,466 new listings to inventory during October, out-gaining the year-ago total of 7,575 by 11.8 percent. Buyers outnumbered new listings, with 10,586 of them having their offers accepted. That number of pending sales was up nearly 8 percent from the same month a year ago.

Buyers may find themselves in a quandary as the year winds down as they contemplate limited supply, possible upticks in interest rates and tax reform. Last week's announcement of a provision in a GOP tax proposal to cap the mortgage interest deduction is concerning to buyers, brokers and builders.

"Imagine if the proposed plan to cap the mortgage interest deduction at $500,000 is approved in a market that is starved for homes and where the median price [for a single family home in King County] is now $630,000," said O B Jacobi, president of Windermere Real Estate. "Homeowners may be less likely to sell because they would be giving up their grandfathered tax credit on their current home. That's fewer homes for sale in a market where we really need them," he stated, adding, "There could also be a flood of new buyers trying to purchase before the plan is passed, adding to the already hyper-competitive market conditions."

The president of the National Association of REALTORS® also weighed in, saying details are currently under review, but stated, "Eliminating or nullifying the tax incentives for homeownership puts home values and middle class homeowners at risk, and from a cursory examination this legislation appears to do just that."

Northwest MLS data show 66 percent of single family homes sold so far this year (Jan. - Oct.) in King County had selling prices of $500,000 or higher.

For single family homes (excluding condos), the median sales price for last month's completed transactions was $381,000. Within King County prices are considerably higher. In Seattle, year-over-year prices jumped 17.6 percent, from $625,000 to $735,000. On the Eastside, the median price for a single family home rose 10 percent from a year ago, increasing from $768,000 to $845,000. Nevertheless, high prices did not seem to deter many house-hunters.

End of year and early 2018 home sales

With a large buyer pool for each new listing, a higher percentage of new listings sell within the first 30 days of coming on the market. As we enter the winter market, the number of new listings being added will be in short supply from now through February. Compared to spring months, the next few months will be at 30-to-50 percent of spring totals. The stage is set once again for a frenzy housing market after the first of the year in the price ranges where there is a shortage of active listings for sale.

Inventory remains low in many counties in the Northwest MLS system. Overall, there is only 1.5 months of supply of single family homes and condos combined. In King County, it's less than one month. Industry analysts say four to six months typically indicates a balanced (or "normal") market.

Most brokers agree inventory will not grow over the next few months. Sellers who bring their homes on the market over the next three months will have a lot of interest because of the pent-up demand of buyers who are going to have fewer houses to consider.

Brokers in Snohomish County are detecting some tapering of activity

Buyers are no longer being as aggressive with concessions on homes when making offers and they are unwilling to compete for a home where sellers are being too aggressive with a list price. Buyers who have been on the sidelines are now more active as they see a slowdown and an opportunity to finally own a home without the multiple offer competition.

Additionally the usual seasonal slowdown is apparent a bit earlier than usual. Multiple offers are continuing but listings in Snohomish County are experiencing longer market times, fewer above-list price offers, and a noticeable increase in price reductions. All of this puts an emphasis on how important correct, accurate pricing has become.

Statistics for October at first blush suggest the lack of listings of single family homes and condos in the region is self-correcting. As an example, new listings in the tri-county region (King, Snohomish and Pierce) increased 11 percent from a year ago, while year-over-year sales rose only 6 percent. That implies the shrinking inventory of homes for sale experienced over the past couple of year may be evening out.

The story continues to be in the 'commuter' counties, which are experiencing the biggest shrinkage from a year ago. This reduction of supply will continue to put pressure on rising prices. Bottom line: investment in a home continues to be bullish with no change in sight.

Northwest MLS board member Robert Wasser said while it may be a difficult time to be a buyer and a positive time to be a seller, the best strategy "regardless of market conditions is to calculate the pros and cons involved and make informed choices." Wasser, the owner/broker at Prospera Real Estate in Seattle, recommends working with a real estate professional who, among other topics "is equipped to discuss market conditions, financing considerations, historic trends, and buying and selling strategies."

I have been a full time Realtor since 2007 and have represented both buyers and sellers in transactions in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. I specialize in first time home buyers, but have worked with investors, short sales, and a large variety of unique real estate purchases. I am a Certified International Property specialist (CIPS), with a special skill set to assist international moves utilizing my experience living abroad and extensive travels.

Congrats to Pramit & Upasna on their closing of their new Redmond condo! It took us awhile, but we found it!

That's the thing with looking for property...it can take awhile. Regardless of whether it's a seller's market or a buyer's market, buying a home is one of the biggest purchases people make and it should be just what you are looking for (or mostly what you are looking for). It's more than what neighborhood or what your budget is. Everyone has a different set of parameters, and it's important in working with my clients to find out what they are. And then, as we're touring homes, searching the listings, things will pop up and your parameters will change, or certainly be tweaked a little.

That's my job (and my great delight), listening to you, searching all available homes, checking in with my peers in the area to help find the best options for you. Then we put in that offer and just like Pramit & Upasna...close the deal.

I have been a full time Realtor since 2007 and have represented both buyers and sellers in transactions in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. I specialize in first time home buyers, but have worked with investors, short sales, and a large variety of unique real estate purchases. I am a Certified International Property specialist (CIPS), with a special skill set to assist international moves utilizing my experience living abroad and extensive travels.

Picking up a pumpkin after work at your nearby market is easy and sometimes the only option, but if you've got time on the weekend, visiting a local pumpkin patch can add a whole new level of fun to your pre-Halloween activities! Before you pick the pumpkin patch nearest you and hop in the car, be sure to check their website for dates/hours of operation and admission prices (and look for discounts/coupons).

I have been a full time Realtor since 2007 and have represented both buyers and sellers in transactions in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. I specialize in first time home buyers, but have worked with investors, short sales, and a large variety of unique real estate purchases. I am a Certified International Property specialist (CIPS), with a special skill set to assist international moves utilizing my experience living abroad and extensive travels.

The decor of your home appeals to you, but may not to potential buyers.

You may have a beautifully decorated home, but what works for you may turn off buyers that visit. Your goal should be to present a neutral look, one that appeals to the masses. Start to believe that “less is more”! While you don’t have to pay to have your home staged (though many times I will advise you do), de-cluttering and opening up your space will pay off when it comes time to sell.

Don’t keep secrets from your agent.

You might be afraid that recent water damage or signs of termites will hurt your sale and keep the listing price low, but don’t keep any of your home’s flaws to yourself. Sellers must disclose any problems with their property. If you agent isn’t aware of things that need to be addressed, it could become an issue with your transaction down the line.

Remodeling doesn’t always payoff.

Retiling a bathroom floor or changing out light fixtures may seem like a good idea to help sell your home, but there is no guarantee that you’ll see that reflected in a higher sales price. Some upgrades may see a payback, but don’t count on it. Also consider this…are you remodeling for your taste, what you’ve always wanted? Again, the goal is to present a neutral look. You may love vintage ceiling lights, but potential buyers may not.

You may have to fix some things.

You may not even not even notice the scratched up trim, dings in wall and broken door knobs anymore, but potential buyers will. Take some time to remove these distractions and protect your sales price from being knocked down.

Only one chance at a first impression.

Curb appeal is your home’s first impression. Mold and mildew on the house, roof, or driveway? Dead or overgrown plants in the yard? Park where a potential buyer would and walk towards the house, looking around you as if it were your first visit. Is the approach clean and tidy? What could you do to improve that first impression?

I have been a full time Realtor since 2007 and have represented both buyers and sellers in transactions in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. I specialize in first time home buyers, but have worked with investors, short sales, and a large variety of unique real estate purchases. I am a Certified International Property specialist (CIPS), with a special skill set to assist international moves utilizing my experience living abroad and extensive travels.

I have been a full time Realtor since 2007 and have represented both buyers and sellers in transactions in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. I specialize in first time home buyers, but have worked with investors, short sales, and a large variety of unique real estate purchases. I am a Certified International Property specialist (CIPS), with a special skill set to assist international moves utilizing my experience living abroad and extensive travels.

A huge THANK YOU to all of my clients for voting me a Five Star Professional! The Five Star award recognizes professionals in the real estate, mortgage and home/auto insurance industries who have shown a dedication to their clients and professional excellence!

But it's not just a popularity contest. Five Star Professional conducts market research to define and promote professional excellence in the professions that they serve. The Five Star designation assists consumers in selecting a service professional that other consumers (that's you!) say provides exceptional client satisfaction and service.

Again, thank you and please know that I will continue providing Five Star service so that everyone may experience the easiest and most enjoyable home buying/selling experience possible!

I have been a full time Realtor since 2007 and have represented both buyers and sellers in transactions in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. I specialize in first time home buyers, but have worked with investors, short sales, and a large variety of unique real estate purchases. I am a Certified International Property specialist (CIPS), with a special skill set to assist international moves utilizing my experience living abroad and extensive travels.

You will absolutely enjoy starting your mornings with coffee on your deck with expansive views of the Cascades, North Kirkland and Mt. Rainier brilliantly popping out. This home offers 3 living spaces for your own private quiet space to relax or for those large get togethers. The master bedroom has its own bathroom, large closet, and comfortable nook with views. This home has many extras including wired for a generator & a heat pump. 3 Beds, 2 Bathrooms, 2 Half Baths - $698,000.

Open House this weekend: Saturday August 5th (2 - 4pm) and Sunday 1 - 4 pm

I have been a full time Realtor since 2007 and have represented both buyers and sellers in transactions in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. I specialize in first time home buyers, but have worked with investors, short sales, and a large variety of unique real estate purchases. I am a Certified International Property specialist (CIPS), with a special skill set to assist international moves utilizing my experience living abroad and extensive travels.

Are you nervous about buying a home in this current "sellers" market? Learn how to navigate your way through the ins and outs of the real estate market! As a real estate broker of 10 years, I can help you understand the terminology associated with real estate transactions, how to make your best offer and what to look for (or look out for!)

I'll be joined by mortgage consultant Kate Beck of HomeStreet Bank. Kate will answer any questions you might have about the financial side of home buying.

This class is free and fills up fast. Call Saviya at (206) 334-8348 to save your spot for this next class!

I have been a full time Realtor since 2007 and have represented both buyers and sellers in transactions in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. I specialize in first time home buyers, but have worked with investors, short sales, and a large variety of unique real estate purchases. I am a Certified International Property specialist (CIPS), with a special skill set to assist international moves utilizing my experience living abroad and extensive travels.

I have been a full time Realtor since 2007 and have represented both buyers and sellers in transactions in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. I specialize in first time home buyers, but have worked with investors, short sales, and a large variety of unique real estate purchases. I am a Certified International Property specialist (CIPS), with a special skill set to assist international moves utilizing my experience living abroad and extensive travels.